Booker athletes put new skills to the test

Booker High School football players spent the first part of their summer learning how to be good players on and of the field. 

Forty-eight football players attended Booker's 2013 Summer Athletic Academic Enrichment and Life Skills Program, which began June 10, as part of their summer strength training.

The Allen Wirtz Nobbe and Jo Bowen Nobbe Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County funded the six-week program, which ended with a clebratory lunch at Michael's on East yesterday. 

During the lunch the players applied table etiquette that guest speaker and Sarasota County Carolyn Major-Harper staff member taught them.

To participate in the program, football players attended courses from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday to learn from community guest speakers about youth employment, nutrition, etiquette, proper social media and online etiquette and the importance of having a positive reputation.

Coaches and staff had the boys apply math and science skills to life lessons. For example, Sarasota County registered dietician Adriel Zahniser, taught the players about portion control and how to read food labels. Players learned about which chemicals and ingredients are harmful to the body. They also learned to eat healthier foods so they can stay active both on the field, and in the classroom.

Booker football coaches Johnnie Jones, Jason Garin and James Haines; Assistant Principals Darby Larkin and Tricia Allen; Booker High School Director of Development Shellie Freeland Eddie; and Principal Dr. Rachel Shelley all supported and encouraged students throughout the program.

Booker High hopes to expand the program next year so more student athletes can learn the importance of having a good attitude on and off the field.